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The smoke used to signify to the public whether a new pope has been elected is a centuries-old tradition that has been slightly modernized by the Catholic Church during recent conclaves.
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Christopher Furlong/Getty Images
  • ABC News
  • May 8, 2025

What to know about the conclave smoke used to signify the election of a new pope

The smoke used to signify to the public whether a new pope has been elected is a centuries-old tradition that has been slightly modernized by the Catholic Church during recent conclaves.

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